LAS VEGAS – Federal Transit Administrator Peter Rogoff joined Nevada officials today in celebrating the opening of the Sahara Express Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line. The new line will give residents and tourists a convenient and affordable option for commuting to work and traveling to and from downtown Las Vegas.

“President Obama’s blueprint for an America built to last means investing in transportation systems that will keep people and goods moving,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “This project will help people get to work and help Las Vegas develop a modern, energy-efficient transit system that will reduce congestion and support the region’s economic comeback for years to come.”

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada received $34.4 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s competitive – Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery – TIGER grant program toward the $45.2 million project.

“The Sahara BRT Express line offers a one-seat ride, no need to transfer, to thousands of workers traveling from their homes in the Valley to jobs downtown and along the Strip,” said Administrator Rogoff. “It’s a reliable and desirable way to travel – and helps people keep more of their hard-earned paychecks in their wallets instead of paying it at the pump.”

The transit line includes dedicated bus lanes along Sahara Avenue and traffic signal improvements that will help speed travel times for riders along the 12-mile corridor. The system features solar-powered lighting in passenger shelters, ticket vending machines, and elevated station platforms that make boarding easy. The project is part of a comprehensive transit network connecting various BRT routes with double-decker buses and the Las Vegas Monorail.

Today’s announcement is just one way the Department of Transportation is celebrating National Transportation Week (May 14th - 20th). Over the next seven days, the Department is highlighting its commitment to ensuring the safety of America’s transportation systems this week and all 52 weeks of the year. Investment in our nation’s infrastructure is critical for maintaining and improving safety. Through TIGER grants, discretionary funds and other programs, DOT is working to enhance, expand and modernize American infrastructure, but Congress needs to act. A bipartisan long-term transportation bill is necessary to move our country into the future.